Want to know why Cleopatra used rose oil to seduce Mark Anthony and Caesar, or why black pepper was referred to for it’s erotic properties in ancient Arabic sex manuals?

The answer lies in the aphrodisiac properties of certain aromatherapy essential oils.

With Valentine's day looming, we look at why scents can stimulate sexual desire, and which oils you can use to make to make your day (and night) extra special this year.

Essential oils, volatile aromatic compounds extracted from plant material, have a long history of use as aphrodisiacs. In fact, Frankincense and Myrhh are even mentioned in the Bible for their ability to increase desire.

Why do some essential oils have such potent aphrodisiac properties? It’s simple. When essential oils are inhaled, aromatic molecules travel along the nasal cavity to the olfactory bulb, which is directly linked to the limbic system, known as the ‘primitive brain’. As the limbic system is responsible for mood, emotions and sex drive, scents can instantly stimulate feelings of desire.

Interestingly, when an American neurologist observed that 18% of patients who lost their sense of smell developed sexual dysfunction, he conducted research into which scents caused arousal in men and women. The most arousing scent for men was a combination of Lavender and Pumpkin pie, while for women it was Licquorice!

Oils with aphrodisiac properties can be divided into the following categories:

Florals

These exotic, sensual oils open the heart and encourage a deep connection between lovers. Good examples are:

Rose

Jasmine

Ylang Ylang

Spices

These warming oils improve circulation and blood flow to the reproductive organs. Most commonly used are:

Black pepper

Cinnamon

Ginger

Woods

These oils are wonderfully grounding, releasing fear and nervous tension. The top three are:

Cedarwood

Sandalwood

Rosewood

Try them for yourself this Valentine's Day - treat your partner to an aromatherapy massage using a pre-blended oil, or add a few drops of oil to a little full fat milk (another one of Cleopatra’s tricks!) and add to a bath big enough for two!